IBS & IBD - What To Consume In Them?

What is IBS?

IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome is an uneasy intestinal disorder characterized by changes in the bowel movement. Some people with IBS experience constipation, while others have diarrhoea. Symptoms such as abdominal pain and cramps often make daily activities unbearable. 

IBS is believed to be caused by a bacterial infection in the gastrointestinal tract. For some people, certain food items along with anxiety and stress can trigger the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. 

Food items that trigger IBS 

Some food items that may prompt or worsen the symptoms of the condition include –

• Cereal and bread, refined grains

• Processed food items, like cookies and chips

• Alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated beverages

• Dairy products, like cheese

• High-protein diet

Recommended Diet Plan for IBS Management 

When you are aware of the food items that are likely to flare up IBS symptoms, it is easier to avoid them. Specific diet plans can help ease the condition and improve your overall health. Here is what your diet plan should consist of –

• Eat the right amount of fibres. Fibre adds bulk to your stools, which helps in bowel movement. High-fibre food items like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains help prevent constipation. People, who experience gas or bloating should focus on soluble fibres, mainly found in fruits and green veggies.

• Go for a gluten-free diet. Grain products, such as pasta and bread are the main sources of gluten. It is a type of protein, which can potentially damage the intestines of a person, who is intolerant of gluten. In such a case, following a gluten-free diet can lower the symptoms of IBS. Exclude rye, barley, wheat and bread to improve your gastrointestinal problems. 

• IFFGD recommends avoiding food items, like chocolates, caffeine, nuts and insoluble fibre. So be sure to steer clear of these items.

• Fatty food items may contribute to IBS-related diarrhoea and constipation. Eating a diet that is low in fat is great for your heart and can improve the uncomfortable symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Instead of consuming animal fats and fried food items, aim for a healthy serving of lean meats, vegetables and fruits, and low-fat dairy items. 

• Follow a diet that is low in FODMAP. FODMAP are carbohydrates that are not easily digestible by the intestine. As the carbohydrates pull more water into the bowel, you may experience bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. You should limit your intakes of FODMAP food items, such as wheat-based cereals, bread and pasta, certain fruits like mangoes and apples, legumes, certain nuts like pistachios and cashews, vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and mushrooms, and all lactose items.

Alongside, you should drink sufficient amount of water and exercise daily to reduce IBS symptoms and promote regularity.

What is IBD?

IBD or Inflammatory Bowel Disease refers to a range of disorders that involve long-term inflammation of the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis are the two main kinds of IBD. The exact causes of the condition are not known. However, research suggests that chronic stress and poor diet can aggravate the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease – the most common ones being fatigue and fever, abdominal cramps and pain, diarrhoea etc. 

Food items that trigger IBD

Food items to avoid if you have IBD include –

• Spicy/fatty food items

• Meat

• Fibre-rich food items

• Caffeinated beverages

• Artificial sweeteners and alcohol

• Beans, seeds, and nuts

Recommended Diet Plan for IBD Management 

The symptoms of IBD can be well managed or even reduced by following a diet that includes –

• Refined grains – They contain less fermentable fibre than whole grains and pass through the digestive tract more quickly. Food items like white bread, white rice, and rice snacks are easy on the gut and are less likely to trigger inflammation.

• Oatmeal – Beta-glucan, a soluble fibre contained in oatmeal helps ease diarrhoea by absorbing water and adding more bulk to stool.

• Oily fish are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and plenty of other healthy fats, which help to combat inflammation. 

• Lean protein, such as tofu, soy, and eggs contain bioactive peptides, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties – all which may help you manage IBD.

Eating food items that are easily digestible and nutrient-rich can promote healing and improve IBD.

IBS and IBD are two different conditions. Even though the symptoms may be similar, the causes are different. Diet plan for these conditions differ based on what is triggering the flare-ups. It is advisable that you consult a nutritionist to chalk out a detailed diet chart that will help you manage these debilitating conditions.